Pin it A whimsical and indulgent hot cocoa board featuring a variety of toppings, treats, and homemade hot chocolate, perfect for cozy gatherings or festive winter nights.
This recipe makes a delightful treat that brings people together during the colder months.
Ingredients
- Hot Cocoa: 4 cups whole milk, 1 cup heavy cream, 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips, 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, 1 tsp vanilla extract, pinch of salt
- Toppings: 2 cups mini marshmallows, 1/2 cup whipped cream, 1/3 cup chocolate shavings, 1/4 cup caramel sauce, 1/4 cup crushed peppermint candies, 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips, 1/4 cup toffee bits, 1/4 cup rainbow sprinkles
- Dippable Treats: 6 large bear-shaped sugar cookies (store-bought or homemade), 12 chocolate-dipped pretzel rods, 1 cup graham crackers, 1 cup fresh strawberries, 1 cup mini donuts or donut holes
- Extras: 6 cinnamon sticks (for stirring), 6 mugs
Instructions
- Prepare the hot cocoa:
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine milk, heavy cream, chocolate chips, cocoa powder, sugar, vanilla, and salt. Whisk until chocolate is melted and the mixture is smooth and steaming (do not boil). Remove from heat and keep warm.
- Arrange the board:
- On a large serving board or tray, neatly organize the toppings in small bowls or ramekins.
- Place the dippable treats:
- Around the board, alternating colors and shapes for visual appeal.
- Add bear-shaped cookies:
- As the centerpiece for a playful touch.
- Pour the hot cocoa:
- Into a heatproof pitcher or insulated carafe.
- Set out mugs and cinnamon sticks:
- For stirring.
- Invite guests:
- To fill their mugs with hot cocoa and customize with their favorite toppings and treats.
Pin it This board has become a favorite family tradition during winter holidays, bringing warmth and smiles together.
Required Tools
Medium saucepan, whisk, large serving board or tray, small bowls or ramekins, pitcher or carafe, mugs
Allergen Information
Contains milk, cream, and chocolate (dairy); wheat (cookies, graham crackers, donuts); possible tree nuts (toffee bits); eggs (cookies, donuts). Always check ingredient labels for potential allergens.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 400, Total Fat: 18 g, Carbohydrates: 55 g, Protein: 7 g (per serving estimate)
Pin it A delicious and customizable hot cocoa experience that is sure to delight your guests every time.
Recipe FAQs
- → What kind of milk works best?
Whole milk and heavy cream create a rich, creamy base, but oat or almond milk can be used as dairy-free alternatives.
- → How can I make the cocoa more flavorful?
Adding a pinch of cinnamon or chili powder enhances warmth and depth without overpowering the chocolate notes.
- → What toppings pair well with this drink?
Mini marshmallows, whipped cream, caramel sauce, peppermint candies, and chocolate shavings offer complementary textures and sweet bursts.
- → How should I arrange the dippable treats?
Arrange a colorful variety of bear-shaped cookies, chocolate-dipped pretzels, graham crackers, fresh strawberries, and mini donuts for visual appeal and easy access.
- → Can this be prepared ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the cocoa base in advance and keep warm. Arrange toppings and treats just before serving to maintain freshness.
- → Are there allergen considerations?
This contains dairy, wheat, possible nuts, and eggs. Checking ingredient labels helps address specific dietary needs.